Work Tea: Recent Episodes

Sarah Torres-Ferrick

The Work Tea podcast provides commentary on the news that matters at work, so you can have your dream career and dream life. The podcast is hosted by Sarah Torres-Ferrick, the HR expert, and Jack Ferrick, the business owner.

Continue the conversation on Instagram @sarahtorresferrick. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Join Sarah in a discussion of this week's business news.


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Join Sarah in a discussion of this week's business news.


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Jack tells Sarah about a lawsuit against the NFL regarding discrimination and a rule that hurts her HR head. They chat about the rule, the lawsuit, and what it means to you.

Join the conversation on Instagram @sarahtorresferrick


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Review the news from the previous week with Sarah and Jack. 

Join the conversation on Instagram @sarahtorresferrick. 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Welcome to the rebranded Work Tea podcast.


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

No judgement here. It's normal and common to fear giving feedback. In this episode we discuss why that is. And more importantly, we talk about why you don't need to fear giving feedback, so you can feel comfortable being a leader. 

Mini Course "Get Out of Your Head and Master Team Member Feedback Already"

https://hrcircle.thinkific.com/courses/teamfeedback

DM with questions

Instagram: @sarahtorresferrick


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Sorry, but it's true. The overuse of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and templates are killing your business and also draining your time and energy. SOPs and templates were supposed to save you, but we both know they aren't working. Or at least, they aren't working in the way conventional thinking tells us to use them. In this episode we discuss how SOPs are killing your business and what you should do instead.

Get the free HR Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Instagram: @sarahtorresferrick


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Motivation doesn't have to break the budget. Who got it in our heads that money and expensive gifts were the only way to get a motivated staff? Don't buy into that. You can - and should - motivate your team with the free methods we discuss during this podcast episode.

Get the free HR Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Instagram: @sarahtorresferrick


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Conflict on teams hurt. Knowing what to do about the conflict can be daunting. In this episode, we tackle what to do when there is a conflict on your team. We discuss how to rise as the leader of your business to resolve conflict in a way that helps your team members and supports your business.

Get the free HR Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Instagram: @sarahtorresferrick


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Enjoy the first lesson in our Listenable course "Winning Leadership: Simple and Effective Performance Management Systems" during this episode.

When it comes to running my business and my team, I live for an effective performance management system. Taking the time to set up a system helps me down the line. I don't have to stress about how to deal with a performance issue or agonize over whether I am being fair to all my high-achieving employees.

This course is perfect for you if you manage a team and need to finally set up a performance management system. Don't worry, no MBA required and no fancy HR talk. The course cuts to the basics so you can get back to running your business.

Get the full course here and enjoy a 7 day free trial (that's enough time to take this course and try more courses from Listenable).

https://listenable.io/web/courses/395/winning-leadership-simple-and-effective-performance-management-systems/

Get the free HR Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Instagram: @sarahtorresferrick


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Negotiators are not those slimy people you want to avoid. You can actually learn from negotiators to make your communications more effective. In this episode, we talk about what tips you can steal from negotiators.

Instagram: @sarahtorresferrick

Get the free HR Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Oh the big question... How do you get your employees to do their best work? You pay them right? Well, there is actually more to it. In this episode we talk about how to motivate your employees to be high performers.

Get the free HR Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Nobody goes into business because they love constructive feedback and not-so-nice conversations. In this episode we make this process a little easier, by highlighting three things you should never say and then what to say instead.

Connect on IG: @sarahtorresferrick

Get the free HR Toolkit (to include the FUN Feedback Cheat Sheet mentioned in the episode): www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

It doesn't have to be awkward or a pain. In fact, it can improve your business. In this interview, Heather talks virtual learning in a way that is approachable and makes you want to put down your earbuds and get to it.

Get Heather's Virtual Facilitation Formula at https://mailchi.mp/skillmastersmarket/three-tips-for-virtual-facilitation

Connect with Heather:

LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-burright/


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Failure is one of best things that could happen as a leader. It is a tool you can use to show that innovation and thus failure is valued at your company. In this episode we discuss why failure is important, and how leaders can use it to improve innovation.

Connect on IG: @sarahtorresferrick

Get the free HR Toolkit (to include the New Hire Checklist): www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

You did the hard part, and now it's time to welcome your new employee to the company. From new hire paperwork to team introductions and acclimation, we talk how to make the most of the critical first few days.

Get the free HR Toolkit (to include the New Hire Checklist): www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

It's the time of year to look at your employee handbook. I know it sounds horrible, but if you take a few hours each year to do this, then you are saving yourself time and stress down the line. In this episode we discuss the 6 areas to update to get your employee handbook ready for the new year.

Get the free HR Toolkit (to include the anti discrimination policy to add to your Employee Handbook): www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

The EEOC issued new guidance on vaccinations in the workplace. In this episode we talk about what the guidance means while tackling when to require vaccinations and what to do when employees refuse.

EEOC: https://bit.ly/3nyP7Ux

Get the free HR Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

DOL issued a new final rule that clarifies the definition of an independent contractor. In this episode we talk about what that means and what you should do as a business owner.

News Release: https://bit.ly/2LynrC8

Final Rule: https://bit.ly/3hXixdK

Get the free HR Toolkit that includes a contractor checklist: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Finding team members is a struggle. In this episode, we discuss three places to find team members so you are not bombarded with unqualified people.

Register for the Soloprenuer to CEO Roadmap webinar: www.hrcircleonline.com/roadmap


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Growing in business does not always been more. Sometimes it means cutting back and being strategic. In this episode, we discuss things you can do to grow business before hiring employees.

Register for the Soloprenuer to CEO Roadmap webinar: www.hrcircleonline.com/roadmap


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

As much as we love all the frills of having a business, a business is a business when we have clients and customers. But it is not all about selling products and services or taking care of customers (though those are critical). At some point, hopefully early on, every business needs to get the guts of the business setup. In this episode we break it down in a simple roadmap. We talk business entities, legal stuff, tax stuff and more. If you ever debated about the LLC or S Corp or Sole Prop question, then this episode is for you.

Get the free HR Toolkit discussed in the episode: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Reading and caring about new laws is the last thing you want to think about, but it is important for the health and security of your business. In this episode we chat about recent updates in Virginia and California and touch on trends we are seeing across the country.

Get the free HR Toolkit discussed in the episode: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup

Sources:

https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/legal-and-compliance/state-and-local-updates/pages/7-steps-virginia-employers-should-take-in-light-of-new-laws.aspx

https://www.forbes.com/sites/kellyphillipserb/2020/11/05/california-votes-to-keep-drivers-classified-as-independent-contractors/?sh=69fb7b254376


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Good systems are critical for every business, but they are especially critical for businesses that want to grow. In this Interview, Tracy talks business systems in a way that is approachable and makes you want to put down your earbuds and get to it.

Get Tracy's Well-Planned Week Starter Kit at https://tracylynnmorgan.kartra.com/page/WellPlannedWeekSignUp.

Connect with Tracy:

IG - https://www.instagram.com/tracylynnmorgan/

LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracylmorgan/

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Communication is hard, and it's not something that comes naturally to most business owners. In this episode we talk about one thing you can stop doing that will sky rocket the effectiveness of your conversations with employees.

Take the SkillShare Course "Navigating Difficult Conversations with Employees" at https://www.skillshare.com/classes/Navigating-Difficult-Conversations-with-Employees/25458417?via=teaching

If you don't have a membership get a 2 month free trial with my link. https://www.skillshare.com/r/profile/Sarah-Torres-Ferrick-HR-Circle/395580

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Amazing work culture always matters, but it is increasing important in the current times when companies are working hard to just stay open let alone create and foster an amazing work culture. In this interview with Jacqueline Martinez, we learn real world steps for getting an amazing work culture. The best part is that it won't cause you more stress. When talking about communication she says the leader needs to "only do 20% of the talking." This is doable.

Listen to Jacqueline's podcast From Coffee to Wine at https://fromcoffeetowine.bar/.

Connect with Jacqueline on IG. https://fromcoffeetowine.bar/?page_id=692

Get the free feedback checklist at www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

She asked us how to stop her employees from sucking the life out of her. We all half laughed as we recalled the times we too felt that way. This episode talks about how we all sometimes feel this way, then dives into what to do about it.

Get the free feedback checklist at www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Employee handbooks are important. Get nerdy with me as we talk about what to put in your handbook.

Get the Equal Opportunity and Commitment to Diversity Policy Template to put in your handbook at www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Guidance on the new payroll tax deferral is here. Well, kind of.

Treasury Press Release: https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sm1110

Get the free HR Toolkit for Small Business: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Join my interview with Erin Porter on mindset and energetics for your business. She shares information to help you become a better leader.

Erin is a Spiritual Business & Mindset Coach, Trainer of NLP, Breathwork Facilitator, and Host of the Energetics of Business Podcast.

She enjoys coaching women in subconscious mind work, somatic healing through breathwork, and the energetics of business!

Learn more about Erin: www.erinnicolecoaching.com.

Get the free HR Toolkit for Small Business: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

Join the community Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

A woman sued her former employer in southern California, claiming she was wrongly fired because her kids were heard while she was working.

Article mentioned in the podcast

Get the free HR Toolkit for Small Business

Join the Facebook Group


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

We've talked a lot about how to eliminate workplace discrimination and create an organization that is diverse and inclusive. This week make sure you have an equal opportunity and commitment to diversity policy. Create your first policy or update your current policy with the information from this podcast episode.

Read the blog post 

Get the free template 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Improve your company's diversity by stopping these three things.

Take a screenshot of your listenting to the podcast and share on IG. Tag @sarahtorresferrick.

Facebook Group 

Free Tools from HR Circle 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Join my chat with Kimberly Olson from Goal Digger Girl where we discuss scaling your business.

Check our Kimberly Olson's new book here. https://amzn.to/3hm1oK6

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup

Free Tools from HR Circle: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Disney World is opening during controversy over treatment of unionized workers.

Union Press Release: https://www.actorsequity.org/news/PR/DisneyGrievance/

Forbes Article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alisondurkee/2020/07/09/actors-equity-claims-disney-retaliating-against-performers-in-new-grievance/#574a1a121149

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup

Free Tools from HR Circle: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Let's talk Facebook's $52 million settlement of a work-trauma class action case. Learn what happened and what your takeaways should be.

Article Sarah mentions: https://bit.ly/2WfJkJ1


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

​The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued guidance for reopening businesses that addresses hazard assessments for all positions, temperature checks, coronavirus testing, and face masks.

OSHA Guidance on Returning to Work: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA4045.pdf

Returning to Work Checklist: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Leading a remote team is a little scary, especially if it is new. In this episode we talk actionable tips to make the most of remote work. 

If there is a performance issue, then use the free Constructive Feedback Checklist which is part of the HR Toolkit. 

www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

The Supreme Court issued a landmark decision to give LGBTQ workers protection from discrimination under Title VII.

Decision: https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/19pdf/17-1618_hfci.pdf

Article Sarah mentions: https://www.cnn.com/2020/06/15/politics/supreme-court-lgbtq-employment-case/index.html

Podcast episode Sarah mentions - "Washington Bans Hairstyle Discrimination:" https://anchor.fm/leadingyourteam/episodes/Washington-Bans-Hairstyle-Discrimination-ef7vlq


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Washington State becomes the latest state to ban hairstyle discrimination. This is a great next step in the movement to eliminate systematic racism in employment practices. We discuss why these types of laws are necessary and what you can do in your business.

Article Sarah Mentions: https://ogletree.com/insights/washington-amends-its-law-against-discrimination-to-provide-protections-for-hair-textures-and-styles-as-traits-associated-with-race/

Get the free HR Toolkit for small businesses: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

A former employee could show age discrimination pretext for his removal. This case shows us how a company can go wrong. There is hostile work environment, disciplinary process mistakes, and management inaction. We talk about the case, and how you can protect your company from having the same issues. 

Join the community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup/  


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Furloughs and layoffs are hard times for companies and employees. When you can return an employee to work after a furlough or layoff you might rush to implement the good news. However, care is needed to get this right. This episode talks about how best to return employees to work. 

Templates (to include a return to work memo): www.hrcircleonline.com/template 

Free Toolkit: www.hrcircleonline.com/toolkit

CDC return to work decision tree: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/workplace-decision-tree.pdf 

Join the community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup/ 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Pre-employment marijuana drug testing is no longer possible in NYC. What does this mean and what do small businesses need to know? 

Article Sarah mentioned: https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/talent-acquisition/pages/nyc-ban-drug-testing-job-applicants-takes-effect.aspx

Join the community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup/ 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support

View Details

Making remote work a standard practice is long overdue. In this episode Sarah discusses her journey in advocating for remote work. Sarah made little progress, but she is optimistic after seeing news report of several tech companies implementing remote work.  Read the article Sarah mentions: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zackfriedman/2020/05/08/google-facebook-amazon-work-home/#747e2823eaea Join the community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadingyourteamgroup 


This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app


Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/worktea/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/worktea/support